Supporting School Readiness

The Supporting School Readiness Program works with children and their families in the year prior to entry into kindergarten. The program also works with childcare centers, family childcare homes, and elementary schools as they prepare for the transition into kindergarten.

 

Program components include:

  • Getting Ready for Kindergarten (GR4K) for Families. Offered monthly from January through May, sessions allow upcoming kindergartners to attend a facilitated playgroup session while their parent or guardian attends a workshop focused on helping families prepare for entering kindergarten. Sessions are free and are offered at multiple sites in Wake County. Families with greatest economic need who have an upcoming kindergartner without preschool/childcare experience receive priority for this program.
  • Summer Enrichment Program. The Summer Enrichment Program is offered at local elementary schools for one week in late June. Children who attend will explore the kindergarten classroom and elementary school as they learn about routines, materials, and expectations in a kindergarten setting. The program is free, with snack and take-home materials provided daily. Transportation is not provided. Upcoming kindergartners who have greatest economic need and little/no preschool experience receive priority for this program.
  • Professional Development for Educators. Childcare and elementary school staff working in centers/schools serving greatest need families can attend free workshops taught by Supporting School Readiness staff. Workshops include a facilitated preschool teacher visit to local elementary schools and other topics related to the transition into kindergarten.
  • Transition Technical Assistance for Centers and Homes. Childcare centers and homes serving families with economic need can receive technical assistance in developing and implementing a Transition Plan for children in their care during the year prior to kindergarten entry. Supporting School Readiness staff offer a menu of resources, materials, and activities aimed at supporting children/families and easing the transition into kindergarten. They also offer support to the center/home staff in determining which options will work best for them.